In 1942, a unit of the Polish II Corps discovered an orphaned brown bear in Hamadan, Iran, shortly after hunters had tragically taken his mother's life.
In 1942, a unit of the Polish II Corps discovered an orphaned brown bear in Hamadan, Iran, shortly after hunters had tragically taken his mother's life. With compassion and camaraderie, they welcomed the bear into their ranks and named him Wojtek, signifying "happy soldier." He quickly became an integral member of the 22nd Artillery Supply Company.
This wasn't a mere symbolic gesture. The soldiers formally enlisted Wojtek by assigning him a rank, providing him with a service number, and even issuing him a pay book. He was given a place among the troops, sharing bunks with fellow soldiers. In no time, he became a true comrade, enjoying beer and cigarettes much like any other member of his unit.
When the call of duty beckoned, Wojtek didn't shy away. He courageously stood by his comrades during battles, even assisting in the arduous task of carrying 100-pound crates of ammunition at the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy in 1943. His unwavering dedication and strength led to his promotion from a private to a corporal. To this day, Wojtek is revered as a cherished war hero, cherished throughout Poland.

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